Ejector latch indicator light and connector

ABSTRACT

An ejector latch indicator light and connector assembly for reducing the interference by a bulkhead of light emitted from an indicator light and establishing an electrical connection between an ejector latch and a printed circuit board (PCB) is disclosed. In one embodiment, the present invention is comprised of an ejector latch. The present embodiment is further comprised of an indicator light integrated with the ejector latch. The indicator light adapted to emit light from the ejector latch such that interference by the bulkhead of the light emitted from the indicator light is reduced. The present embodiment is also comprised of a compression-fit connector integrated with the ejector latch. The compression-fit connector adapted to provide a removably coupleable electrical connection between the ejector latch and a printed circuit board (PCB) such that inadvertent disconnection of the removably coupleable electrical connection between the ejector latch and the PCB is reduced.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present claimed invention relates to the field of computer chassisstructures. More specifically, the present claimed invention relates toan ejector latch indicator light and connector employed in conjunctionwith computer chassis structures.

BACKGROUND ART

Presently, printed circuit assemblies (PCAs) are comprised of asubstrate (e.g., PC board) with associated microcircuits. Typically,PCAs are used in conjunction with chassis structures to allow a largeamount of processing ability to fit into a small space. In general, thechassis structure may contain a multiplicity of PCAs operatingindependently, in conjunction, or as a portion of a larger network.Often, the PCA is attached to the chassis type structure in conjunctionwith very specific standards. Typically, PCA attaching standardsinclude, for example, the compact peripheral component interconnect(cPCI) standard, and the VersaModular Eurocard (VME) standard.

Typically, PCAs used in the chassis type structure fabricated to one ofthe above-mentioned standards (e.g., cPCI or VME) have indicator lightssuch as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) mounted on the printed circuitboard (PCB). The LEDs are conventionally used to signal various statesof the applications running on the PCA including, but not limited to:when the PCA is available for hot swapping, diagnostic states, andprogress indicators. For example, the cPCI industry standard LED colorfor the hot swapping status of a PCA is blue. Therefore, if the light ison (or off, or blinking depending on the specification) the PCA is readyto be hot swapped. In addition to application state information such asindicating hot swapping status, LEDs may be used to indicate local areanetwork (LAN) connectivity, connection speeds (e.g., 10 megabits, 100megabits, 1000 megabits, etc.), power on or off, or the like.

Another utilization of the LED on a PCA is for identification.Specifically, if service personnel are working on a chassis and need toidentify a specific PCA an operator can turn an LED on or off for ashort period of time, thus allowing correct identification of the PCA.

Since the LED is mounted on the PCB, both visual and physical access tothe LED (or LEDs) is normally limited. For example, in order for a userto see the LED, holes must be drilled through the bulkhead of the PCA.The LED may then shine through the hole allowing a user to have visualfeedback with regard to the status of the PCA. Sometimes, a lightdiffusing pipe is used in conjunction with the hole in the bulkhead ofthe PCA to allow a better view of the LED.

One deleterious effect of drilling a hole through the bulkhead of a PCAin order to observe the LED is the lack of uniformity between LEDlocations per PCA. For example, there is no cPCI industry standard forthe location of the LED(s). Therefore, whoever designs the system (orPCA) must also establish the location(s) of the LED(s), design thebulkhead with the correct hole location(s), and choose whether or not touse a light diffusing pipe (or pipes) in conjunction with the LED(s).

In addition to the custom bulkhead requirements mentioned above, sincethere is no industry standard LED location, users (e.g., administratorsand service personnel) can never be sure of the location of the LED withrespect to the bulkhead. Therefore, a user may believe the blue LED isoff and the PCA is ready for hot swapping, but in fact, they may belooking through the wrong hole or at the wrong LED. In such a case, thePCA may be removed prematurely and damage to components within the PCAmay occur.

Another problem with the use of LEDs on a PCB is the amount of room theyrequire. For example, not only does the LED take up space on the PCB butother connectors, cables, indicators, and the like, must be carefullyplaced around the LED and the viewing hole for the LED to ensure thereis no blockage of the light from the LED to the bulkhead. Moreover, thebulkhead of the PCA also has limited room. Therefore, drilling a hole(or holes) in the bulkhead (in order to establish a viewing window forthe LED) leaves less room for connectors, labels, communication ports,and the like.

Furthermore, PCAs used in the chassis type structure fabricated to oneof the above-mentioned standards (e.g., cPCI or VME) have ejectorlatches that are utilized to provide attachment of the PCA with thechassis. In order to ensure correct attachment of the PCA with thechassis has occurred, an engaged/disengaged circuit is integrated withthe ejector latch. Therefore, when the PCA is properly installed, theejector latch circuit is closed and operation of the PCA may commence.However, if the PCA is incorrectly installed, then the ejector latchcircuit will remain open and operation of the PCA may not commence. Inaddition, when an operational PCA is prepared for removal from thechassis, the ejector latches are disengaged. The disengagement of theejector latch opens the ejector latch circuit and allows the PCB toprepare for removal from the chassis. For example, when the ejectorlatches are disengaged, the PCB may begin the process of shutting downin preparation for removal from the system.

In general, during the assembly of a PCA, the ejector latch is mountedpartially to a bulkhead, and then the PCB is attached to the ejectorlatch. The PCB is then screwed into position with respect to both thebulkhead and the ejector latch. A pigtail from the ejector latch is thenplugged into the PCB. On average, the length of the pigtail is one inch,therefore, the plug in location on the PCB must be somewhat close toboth the ejector latch and the bulkhead.

One deleterious effect of utilizing the above stated pigtail to connectthe ejector latch with the PCB is the requirement of plugging in thepigtail before inserting the PCA into the chassis. For example, duringshipping of an assembled PCA the connection between the ejector latchand the PCB may become loose. If a user is unaware of the disconnection,the PCA mounted on the chassis may not operate due to a false opensignal generated by the PCB. In such a condition, the user would berequired to troubleshoot the PCA or hire a technician to troubleshootthe PCA in order to resolve the issue.

Another problem with the pigtail connector is the wear and tear of thewires in the pigtail. For example, the wear and tear associated withinsertion or removal of the PCA from the chassis. Specifically, thewires may rub against other structures on the chassis (e.g., cardguides, framework, other PCA's, etc.) or the PCA itself (e.g., locatorpin, etc.) resulting in disconnection of the male end of the connectorfrom the female end. Furthermore, the wear and tear on the wires mayresult in a short circuit between the wires resulting in a false open orclosed ejector latch status. Additionally, the wear and tear may resultin complete separation of a wire in the connector.

In addition to the disconnection problems mentioned above, there is nocPCI industry standard PCB plug-in location. That is, PCB designers mayplace the PCB connector for the ejector latch pigtail in a range oflocations. Therefore, the expense and time or further custommanufacturing is required. For example, the designer may have a range ofone-inch diameter in which the placement of the PCB connector for theejector latch pigtail. Moreover, if a designer uses or designs a PCB foruse with an ejector latch having a two-inch pigtail, then a user may befurther limited to the type of ejector latches that may be used with aspecific PCB.

Thus, the utilization of ejector latch connectors is non-standard,time-consuming, and lacks the desired “Design for Manufacturability.”

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an ejector latch indicator light andconnector method and apparatus which establishes a conventional locationfor LEDs. The present invention also provides an ejector latch indicatorlight and connector method and apparatus which achieves the aboveaccomplishment and which facilitates utilization of a standard bulkheadhaving no visual port. The present invention also provides an ejectorlatch indicator light and connector method and apparatus which achievesthe above accomplishments and which can be adapted to readily interfacewith industry standard components and meet industry standardspecifications.

Specifically, an ejector latch indicator light and connector assemblyfor reducing the interference by a bulkhead of light emitted from anindicator light and establishing an electrical connection between anejector latch and a printed circuit board (PCB) is disclosed. In oneembodiment, the present invention is comprised of an ejector latch. Thepresent embodiment is further comprised of an indicator light integratedwith the ejector latch. The indicator light adapted to emit light fromthe ejector latch such that interference by the bulkhead of the lightemitted from the indicator light is reduced. The present embodiment isalso comprised of a compression-fit connector integrated with theejector latch. The compression-fit connector adapted to provide aremovably coupleable electrical connection between the ejector latch anda printed circuit board (PCB) such that inadvertent disconnection of theremovably coupleable electrical connection between the ejector latch andthe PCB is reduced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part ofthis specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and,together with the description, serve to explain the principles of theinvention:

FIGS. 1A and 1B are side views of ejector latch indicator lightassemblies in accordance with embodiments of the present claimedinvention.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are side views of ejector latch indicator lightassemblies in accordance with embodiments of the present claimedinvention.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are side views of ejector latch indicator lightassemblies in accordance with embodiments of the present claimedinvention.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are side views of ejector latch indicator lightassemblies in accordance with embodiments of the present claimedinvention.

FIGS. 5A through 5G are front views of ejector latch indicator lightassemblies in accordance with embodiments of the present claimedinvention.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart of steps performed in accordance with oneembodiment of the present claimed invention.

FIG. 7 is a side view of an ejector latch connector assembly inaccordance with an embodiment of the present claimed invention.

FIGS. 8A through 8D are side views of an exemplary coupling process ofan ejector latch connector assembly with a bulkhead and a printedcircuit board in accordance with an embodiment of the present claimedinvention.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart of steps performed in accordance with oneembodiment of the present claimed invention.

FIG. 10 is a side view of an ejector latch light and connector assemblyin accordance with an embodiment of the present claimed invention.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart of steps performed in accordance with oneembodiment of the present claimed invention.

The drawings referred to in this description should be understood as notbeing drawn to scale except if specifically noted.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of theinvention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. While the invention will be described in conjunction with thepreferred embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intendedto limit the invention to these embodiments. On the contrary, theinvention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications andequivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of theinvention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, in thefollowing detailed description of the present invention, numerousspecific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the present invention. However, the present inventionmay be practiced without these specific details. In other instances,well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuits have not beendescribed in detail as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of thepresent invention.

Ejector Latch Indicator Light Physical Characteristics

With reference now to FIGS. 1A-3B, side views of ejector latch indicatorlight assemblies in accordance with embodiments of the present claimedinvention are shown. The following discussion will begin with a detaileddescription of the physical characteristics of the present ejector latchindicator light assemblies. The discussion will then contain a detaileddescription of the use and operation of the present ejector latchindicator light assemblies. Regarding the physical structure of thepresent ejector latch indicator light assemblies, for purposes ofclarity, only one side of the ejector latch indicator light assemblies(e.g., 100 through 350) are shown in FIGS. 1A-3B. In the presentembodiment ejector latch indicator light assemblies (e.g., 100 through350) includes an ejector latch 105. Importantly, as will be discussed indetail below, in one embodiment, ejector latch 105 is formed havingdimensions and characteristics which are in compliance with an industrystandard such as, for example, the compact peripheral componentinterconnect (cPCI) standard, and the VersaModular Eurocard (VME)standard.

Referring now to FIG. 1A, ejector latch indicator light assembly 100also includes an indicator light 115 that is integrated with ejectorlatch 105. In one embodiment, indicator light 115 is comprised of alight-emitting diode (LED). Indicator light 115 is ultimately employedas a status indicator for a printed circuit assembly (PCA) to which itis coupled. Although an LED is specifically mentioned as the indicatorlight 115 in the present embodiment, the indicator light 115 is alsowell suited to use with various other types of indicator lightsincluding, for example, light bulbs, and the like. For purposes ofbrevity and clarity each of the numerous possibilities of indicatorlights are not shown in the present Figures. As shown in FIGS. 1A and1B, indicator light 115 is comprised of a head portion 120, and anelectrical wire (e.g., 125 and 130). As will be discussed below indetail, in one embodiment (e.g., FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A), head portion 120is adapted to be arranged flush with ejector latch 105. Indicator light115 is adapted to emit light from ejector latch 105 such that the lightis not interfered with by a bulkhead to which ejector latch 105 isadapted to be coupled. FIGS. 5A-5G illustrate other embodiment of thepresent invention in which a plurality of indicator lights 115 areadapted to emit light from said ejector latch 105 to reduce theinterference of the light emitted from the indicator light 115 withrespect to a bulkhead.

With reference still to FIG. 1A, in one embodiment ejector latchindicator light assembly 100 also includes a light diffusing pipe 110integrated with ejector latch 105. Light diffusing pipe 110 is employedto direct the light from indicator light 115 to the outside of ejectorlatch 105. In one embodiment, light diffusing pipe 110 may be an opticalfiber, light channel, or the like. As illustrated in FIG. 1B and FIG.3B, light diffusing pipe 110 may be of sufficient length to allowvariable placement of indicator light 115. In other embodiments (e.g.,FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B and FIG. 3A), light diffusing pipe 110 is optional, andindicator light 115 may be used without light diffusing pipe 110 withoutdetrimental operation.

Ejector latch indicator light assembly 100 of FIG. 1A also includeselectrical wire 125 and electrical wire 130 which are coupled to headportion 120 of indicator light 115. Electrical wire 125 and electricalwire 130 electrically couple head portion 120 with a printed circuitboard (PCB) or a printed circuit assembly (PCA). Electrical wire 125 andelectrical wire 130 are employed to transmit the signals that controlhead portion 120 which may be received from the PCB or PCA. Withreference now to FIGS. 4A and 4B, a current limiting resistor 420 may becoupled to electric wire (e.g., 125 and 130). In one embodiment, currentlimiting resistor 420 is coupled with an integrated switch thatterminates at a PCB connector 410. Current limiting resistor 420 allowsthe utilization of a plurality of voltage levels to activate indicatorlight 115. For example, indicator light 115 may be set to operate at1.5, 3.3, or 5 volts. Further details of current limiting resistor 420are described herein.

Ejector Latch Indicator Light Use and Operation

The following is a detailed description of the use and operation of thepresent ejector latch indicator light assembly. With reference again toFIG. 1A, in one embodiment, indicator light 115 is integrated with anejector latch such as ejector latch 105. In one embodiment (e.g., FIG.1A), indicator light 115 is integrated with ejector latch 105 proximateto the end of ejector latch 105, and a light diffusing pipe 110 is usedto diffuse the light emitted from indicator light 115. In anotherembodiment (e.g., FIG. 1B), indicator light 115 is integrated withejector latch 105 at a point other than the end of ejector latch 105 anda light diffusing pipe 110 is used to transmit the light from indicatorlight 115 to the end of ejector latch 105. In yet another embodiment(e.g., FIG. 3B), indicator light 115 is integrated with ejector latch105 at a point other than the end of ejector latch 105 and a lightdiffusing pipe 110 is used to transmit the light from indicator light115 to an outside portion of ejector latch 105.

FIG. 2A illustrates an embodiment in which indicator light 115 isintegrated with ejector latch 105 such that the top surface of headportion 120 is flush with ejector latch 105. In another embodiment(e.g., FIG. 2B), head portion 120 is inset from the outside surface ofejector latch 105 and an opening (or channel) 260 is utilized to allowthe light from indicator light 115 to be emitted. Furthermore, as shownin FIG. 3B, in one embodiment, indicator light 115 may be flush with anoutside portion of ejector latch 105 at a point other than the end ofejector latch 105.

Importantly, the present invention is well suited to integratingindicator light 115 with an ejector latch 105 in order that indicatorlight 115 will remain visible to a user by offsetting the indicatorlight 115 from the PCA bulkhead. In addition, the present embodimentfurther allows the location of indicator light 115 to become standard.Therefore, unlike prior art approaches, the present embodiment does notarbitrarily choose the location of indicator light(s) 115. In addition,unlike prior art approaches, the present embodiment does not requirepost manufacture of standard PCA bulkheads in order to establish visualports for viewing indicator lights. Instead, the present embodimentallows customers to realize the beneficial reduced visual interferenceachieved with the present embodiment, while utilizing the particular PCAbulkhead of the customer's choice. For example, ejector latch 105 iswell suited to use with various types of bulkheads having cables andelectrical connections which are removably coupled thereto, and alsobulkheads having cables and electrical connections which are integraltherewith without detrimentally effecting the visual properties of theindicating light source.

With reference now to FIGS. 1A through 4B, in one embodiment indicatorlight 115 includes a head portion 120 and an electrical wire portion(e.g., 125 and 130). Electrical wire portion (e.g., 125 and 130) areelectrically coupled with a PCA or PCB such that the signals thatactivate head portion 120 may be received from the PCA or PCB.Furthermore, with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, in one embodimentelectrical wire (e.g., 125 and 130) electrically couple with a PCA orPCB via an integrated switch that terminates at a PCB connector 410. Ingeneral, PCB connector 410 is a standard link tab that corresponds tomounting holes disposed on a PCB or a computer chassis and is utilizedto signal the open or closed status of ejector latch 105. As a result,the present invention allows electric wire (e.g., 125 and 130) ofindicator light 115 to be coupled to the PCA or PCB via PCB connector410 without concern for deleterious rewiring or remanufacture of ejectorlatch 105 or the PCA or PCB to which it may attach.

Referring still to FIGS. 4A and 4B, a current limiting resistor 420 maybe coupled to electric wire (e.g., 125 and 130). In one embodiment,current limiting resistor 420 is coupled with the integrated switch thatterminates at a PCB connector 410. In general, current limiting resistor420 allows the utilization of a plurality of voltage levels to activateindicator light 115. For example, one electric wire (e.g., 125) may havea current and ground connection. The other (e.g., electric wire 130) maybe coupled with a current limiting resistor 420. Thus, different voltagelevels (e.g., 1.5, 3.3, 5, or the like) may be used within the PCA todrive the indicator light 115 while the current limiting resistor 420limits the current reaching indicator light 115 to the appropriatelevel.

With reference now to FIGS. 5A-5G front views of ejector latch indicatorlight assemblies are shown. Specifically, examples of embodiments inwhich the present invention utilizes differing locations for indicatorlight 115 and one or more indicator lights 115 are illustrated. As shownin FIGS. 5A, 5C, and 5E, indicator light 115 may be located at aplurality of locations within (or upon) ejector latch 105. In addition,indicator light 115 may utilize a light diffusing pipe 110 fortransmitting the light from indicator light 115 through ejector latch105. For example, to indicate the hot swap status, a blue LED may beintegrated with ejector latch 105.

Moreover, as shown in FIGS. 5B, 5D, 5E, and 5G, a plurality of indicatorlights 115 may be located at a plurality of locations within (or upon)ejector latch 105. In addition, some or all of the plurality ofindicator lights 115 may utilize light diffusing pipe 110. For example,if a plurality of indicators are selected to show the operational statusof the PCA (e.g., indicating hot swapping status, indicating local areanetwork (LAN) connectivity, connection speeds (e.g., 10 megabits, 100megabits, 1000 megabits, etc.), power on or off, or the like), then theymay all be integrated with ejector latch 105 and located at a pluralityof locations thereon.

With reference now to FIG. 6, a flow chart 600 summarizing the stepsperformed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention isshown. At step 602, the present embodiment integrates an indicator lightwith an ejector latch. As described in detail above, the indicator light(e.g. indicator light 115) is adapted to emit light from the ejectorlatch such that the light is not interfered with by a bulkhead to whichthe ejector latch is adapted to be coupled.

Next, at step 604, the present embodiment then electrically couples theindicator light with a PCB using an electrical wire. Beneficially, thepresent embodiment eliminates the need to custom fit each bulkhead of aPCA with the specific PCB and indicator light locations thereon.Instead, the present embodiment allows PCA assemblies to beindependently manufactured without concern for the subsequent locationof indicator lights or the bulkhead being utilized. Furthermore, withthe relocation of the indicating light (e.g., LED) more room isavailable on the PCB and the manufacturing requirements are reducedsince connectors, cables, indicators, and the like will no longer blockthe indicator light from being viewed. Thus, the present inventionachieves a “Design for Manufacturability” lacking in the prior art.Additionally, by reducing visual interference and standardizing thelocation of the hot swap indicator, the present invention is extremelywell suited to use in hot swapping environments.

Ejector Latch Connector Physical Characteristics

With reference now to FIG. 7, a side view of an ejector latch connectorassembly is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present claimedinvention. The following discussion will begin with a detaileddescription of the physical characteristics of the present ejector latchconnector assembly. The discussion will then contain a detaileddescription of the use and operation of the present ejector latchconnector assembly. Regarding the physical structure of the presentejector latch connector assembly, for purposes of clarity, only one sideof the ejector latch connector assembly (e.g., 700) is shown in FIG. 7.In the present embodiment ejector latch connector assembly 700 includesan ejector latch 705. Importantly, as will be discussed in detail below,in one embodiment, ejector latch 705 is formed having dimensions andcharacteristics which are in compliance with an industry standard suchas, for example, the compact peripheral component interconnect (cPCI)standard, and the VersaModular Eurocard (VME) standard.

Referring again to FIG. 7, ejector latch connector assembly 700 alsoincludes a compression-fit connector 725 that is integrated with ejectorlatch 705. In one embodiment, compression-fit connector 725 is a surfacemount connector (SMT). Compression-fit connector 725 is ultimatelyemployed as a removably coupleable electrical connection between ejectorlatch 705 and a printed circuit board (PCB) to which it is coupled.Although an SMT is specifically mentioned as compression-fit connector725 in the present embodiment, compression-fit connector 725 is alsowell suited to use with various other types of compression-fitconnectors. For purposes of brevity and clarity each of the numerouspossibilities of compression-fit connectors are not shown in the presentfigures.

As shown in FIG. 7, compression-fit connector 725 is comprised of a padportion 730, and an electrical wire 720. As will be discussed herein indetail, in one embodiment (e.g., FIG. 7 and FIGS. 8A-8D), pad portion730 is adapted to be coupled with PCB 830. Compression-fit connector 725is adapted to provide a removably coupleable electrical connectionbetween ejector latch 705 and PCB 830 such that inadvertentdisconnection of the removably coupleable electrical connection betweenejector latch 705 and PCB 830 is reduced.

In one embodiment, electrical wire 720 of compression-fit connector 725is integrated with ejector latch 705. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 7(side view of electrical wire 720) electrical wire 720 is comprised ofan S-shaped, stiff (gold plated berilium-copper) conducting portion forincreasing connectivity with respect to pad portion 730. Although anS-shaped portion is shown, it is appreciated that electrical wire 720may incorporate any type of bend and any type of material which mayinduce a better electrical connection. Furthermore, electrical wire 720may be a straight wire thereby incorporating no bend for inducing abetter electrical connection. Lastly, though three wires are shown in720, the concept extends to an arbitrary number.

Referring still to FIG. 7, pad portion 730 may be comprised of severaltraces of copper. In addition, pad portion 730 may be comprised ofcopper that may be etched in different patterns and enhanced withmechanical guides to establish a better electrical connection withelectrical wire 720. Although copper is mentioned as a material utilizedfor pad portion 730, any conductive material (e.g., silver, gold,platinum, or the like) may be used.

With reference still to FIG. 7, in one embodiment ejector latchconnector assembly 700 also includes a fastener arm 710 integrated withejector latch 705. Fastener arm 710 is employed to correctly positionejector latch 705 with bulkhead 820 and PCB 830, of FIG. 8. In oneembodiment, fastener arm 710 may utilize a screw to fasten ejector latch705 with PCB 830. As illustrated in FIGS. 8A through 8D, fastener arm710 correctly positions ejector latch 705 with PCB 830 thus allowingelectrical wire 720 to establish an electrical connection with padportion 730.

Ejector Latch Connector Use and Operation

The following is a detailed description of the use and operation of thepresent ejector latch connector assembly. With reference now to FIG. 8A,in one embodiment, compression-fit connector 725 is integrated with anejector latch such as ejector latch 705 and a PCB such as PCB 830. Inone embodiment (e.g., FIG. 8), electrical wire 720 of compression-fitconnector 725 is integrated with ejector latch 705 below fastener arm710. Moreover, pad portion 730 is coupled with PCB 830 in a positionsuch that a further step of connecting the electrical connection betweenejector latch 705 and PCB 830 is not required. That is, due to theplacement of electrical wire 720 and pad portion 730 upon assembly ofthe PCA (e.g., attaching bulkhead 820 with ejector latch 705 and PCB830) the compression-fit connector establishes a removably coupleableelectrical connection. It is appreciated that only a portion of bothbulkhead 820 and PCB 830 are shown in the present embodiments. It isfurther appreciated that most PCA's have two ejector latch 705'sattached thereon. However, for purposes of brevity and clarity only oneejector latch 705 is shown.

Importantly, the present invention is well suited to electricallycoupling ejector latch 705 with PCB 830 in order that a signal fromejector latch 705 may be received by PCB 830. In addition, the presentembodiment further allows the location of compression-fit connector 725to become an industry standard. Therefore, unlike prior art approaches,the present embodiment does not arbitrarily choose the location of theelectrical wire receptor (e.g., pad portion 730) on PCB 830. Inaddition, unlike prior art approaches, the present embodiment does notrequire post assembly connection of an electrical wire between anejector latch 705 and PCB 830 in order to establish an electricalconnection between ejector latch 705 and PCB 830. Instead, the presentembodiment allows customers to realize the beneficial reducedmaintenance achieved with the present embodiment.

With reference now to FIGS. 8A through 8D, one embodiment of anexemplary coupling process of an ejector latch connector assembly with abulkhead and a printed circuit board is shown. Specifically, withreference to FIG. 8A, PCA 800 is comprised of ejector latch 705,bulkhead 820, PCB 830 and compression-fit connector 725. Additionally,bulkhead 830 includes a fastening portion 840 for removably couplingwith fastener arm 710. Although bulkhead 820 and PCB 830 are shown asbeing coupled together first, this is done merely for purposes ofbrevity and clarity. In fact, bulkhead 820 and PCB 830 may not becoupled together first but instead ejector latch 705 and bulkhead 820may be coupled together first.

Referring now to FIGS. 8B and 8C, bulkhead 820 and PCB 830 are shownapproaching the point of coupling with ejector latch 705. With referenceto FIG. 8C, PCA 850 shows electrical wire 720 making initial contactwith pad portion 730 previous to the complete coupling of ejector latch705 with PCB 830. Therefore, the removably coupleable electricalconnection is being established during the initial assembly of PCA 850.

With reference now to FIG. 8D, PCA 875 is shown after all portions(e.g., ejector latch 710, bulkhead 820, and PCB 830) have been removablycoupled therewith. Upon complete assembly, electrical wire 720 and padportion 730 are electrically coupled via a compression-fit connection.Additionally fastener arm 710 is aligned with fastening portion 840 andremovably coupled therewith. Thus, PCA 875 has been assembled and aconcurrently coupled electrical connection has been established betweenejector latch 705 and PCB 830 without the requirement of any additionalassembly steps or user interaction. Therefore, the position of ejectorlatch 705 (e.g., open or closed) may now be detected by PCB 830 thusallowing correct operation of PCA 875. For example, in one embodimentwhen PCA 875 is inserted in a chassis and ejector latches 705 areengaged, PCB 830 will be able to operate within the system. In addition,when the ejector latches are disengaged (e.g., for hot swapping,maintenance of PCA 875, or the like) PCB 830 will be able to perform ashutdown prior to the removal from the chassis, thereby protecting PCA875 from being removed from a chassis while it is still in operation.

With reference now to FIG. 9, a flow chart 900 summarizing the stepsperformed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention isshown. At step 902, the present embodiment integrates a compression-fitconnector with an ejector latch. As described in detail herein, thecompression-fit connector (e.g. compression-fit connector 725) isadapted to provide a removably coupleable electrical connection betweenejector latch 705 and PCB 830 such that a further step of connecting theelectrical connection between ejector latch 705 and PCB 830 is notrequired.

Next, at step 904, the present embodiment couples a pad portion 730 withPCB 830 wherein pad portion 730 is adapted to provide a removablycoupleable electrical connection between PCB 830 and ejector latch 705.Beneficially, the present embodiment eliminates the need to electricallycouple each ejector latch of a PCA with the specific PCB after thecoupling of the PCB with the ejector latch. Instead, the presentembodiment allows PCA's to be assembled without concern for thesubsequent electrical connection of ejector latches to the PCB beingutilized. Furthermore, with the standardization of the compression-fitconnector less custom manufacturing of the PCB is necessary. Thus, thepresent invention achieves a “Design for Manufacturability” lacking inthe prior art. Additionally, by standardizing the location andincreasing the reliability of compression fit connector 725, the presentinvention is extremely well suited to use in hot swapping environments.

Ejector Latch Indicator Light and Connector Physical Characteristics

The following is a detailed description of the use and operation of thepresent ejector latch indicator light and connector assembly. In thepresent embodiment ejector latch indicator light assembly 1000 of FIG.10 includes an ejector latch 1005. Importantly, as will be discussed indetail below, in one embodiment, ejector latch 1005 is formed havingdimensions and characteristics which are in compliance with an industrystandard such as, for example, the compact peripheral componentinterconnect (cPCI) standard, and the VersaModular Eurocard (VME)standard.

Referring still to FIG. 10, ejector latch indicator light and connectorassembly 1000 also includes an indicator light 115 that is integratedwith ejector latch 1005. In one embodiment, as stated herein, indicatorlight 115 is comprised of a light-emitting diode (LED) which may beultimately employed as a status indicator for a printed circuit assembly(PCA) to which it is coupled. Although an LED is specifically mentionedas the indicator light 115 in the present embodiment, the indicatorlight 115 is also well suited to use with various other types ofindicator lights including, for example, light bulbs, and the like.

As stated herein, indicator light 115 is comprised of a head portion120, and an electrical wire (e.g., 125 and 130). As has been discussedin detail, head portion 120 is adapted to be arranged in a plurality oflocations with respect to ejector latch 1005. Indicator light 115 isfurther adapted to emit light from ejector latch 1005 such that thelight is not interfered with by a bulkhead to which ejector latch 1005is adapted to be coupled. As stated herein, a plurality of indicatorlights 115 may be utilized.

With reference still to FIG. 10, in one embodiment ejector latchindicator light and connector assembly 1000 also includes a lightdiffusing pipe 110 integrated with ejector latch 1005. Light diffusingpipe 110 is employed to direct the light from indicator light 115 to theoutside of ejector latch 1005. As stated herein, light diffusing pipe110 may be in a plurality of shapes and used in a plurality oflocations. In addition, light diffusing pipe 110 may be an opticalfiber, light channel, or the like. In other embodiments, light diffusingpipe 110 is optional, and indicator light 115 may be used without lightdiffusing pipe 110 without detrimental operation.

Ejector latch indicator light and connector assembly 1000 of FIG. 10also includes electrical wire 125 and electrical wire 130 which arecoupled to head portion 120 of indicator light 115. Electrical wire 125and electrical wire 130 electrically couple head portion 120 with aprinted circuit board (PCB) or a printed circuit assembly (PCA).Electrical wire 125 and electrical wire 130 are employed to transmit thesignals that control head portion 120 which may be received from the PCBor PCA. A current limiting resistor (e.g., 420 of FIG. 4A) may becoupled to electric wire (e.g., 125 and 130), although it is not shownin FIG. 10 for purposes of brevity and clarity.

Referring still to FIG. 10, in one embodiment, ejector latch indicatorlight and connector assembly 1000 also includes compression-fitconnector 725. In one embodiment, electrical wire 720 of compression-fitconnector 725 is integrated with ejector latch 1005 below fastener arm710. Compression-fit connector 725 may be one of the methods utilized totransmit the signals that control head portion 120 which may be receivedfrom the PCB or PCA. It is further appreciated that most PCA's have twoejector latch 1005's attached thereon. However, for purposes of brevityand clarity only one ejector latch 1005 is shown.

Ejector Latch Indicator Light and Connector Use and Operation

The following is a detailed description of the use and operation of thepresent ejector latch indicator light and connector assembly. Withreference again to FIG. 10, in one embodiment, indicator light 115 isintegrated with ejector latch 105 proximate to the end of ejector latch1005, and a light diffusing pipe 110 is used to diffuse the lightemitted from indicator light 115. Although only one embodiment (e.g.,FIG. 10) is shown, it is appreciated that the previously describedfigures and locations of indicator light 115 may be utilized inconjunction with the connector assembly 725 also described in detailherein.

Moreover, pad portion 730 may also be coupled with a PCB in a positionsuch that a further step of connecting the electrical connection betweenejector latch 1005 and the PCB is not required. That is, due to theplacement of electrical wire 720 and pad portion 730 upon assembly ofthe PCA (e.g., attaching a bulkhead with ejector latch 1005 and PCB) thecompression-fit connector establishes a removably coupleable electricalconnection.

Importantly, the present invention is well suited to electricallycoupling ejector latch 1005 with the PCB in order that a signal fromejector latch 705 may be received by the PCB and that indicator light115 will remain visible to a user by offsetting the indicator light 115from the PCA bulkhead. In addition, the present embodiment furtherallows the location of compression-fit connector 725 and indicator light115 to become an industry standard. Therefore, unlike prior artapproaches, the present embodiment does not arbitrarily choose thelocation of the electrical wire receptor (e.g., pad portion 730) or thelocation of indicator light(s) 115 on a PCB such as PCB 830 of FIG. 8.In addition, unlike prior art approaches, the present embodiment doesnot require post assembly connection of an electrical wire in order toestablish an electrical connection between ejector latch 1005 indicatorlight 115 and a PCB. Instead, the present embodiment allows customers torealize the beneficial reduced maintenance while utilizing theparticular PCA bulkhead of the customer's choice.

With reference now to FIG. 11, a flow chart 1100 summarizing the stepsperformed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention isshown. At step 1102, the present embodiment integrates an indicatorlight with an ejector latch. As described in detail herein, theindicator light (e.g. indicator light 115 of FIG. 10) is adapted to emitlight from the ejector latch such that the light is not interfered withby a bulkhead to which the ejector latch is adapted to be coupled.

Next, at step 1104, the present embodiment integrates a compression-fitconnector with an ejector latch. As described in detail herein, thecompression-fit connector (e.g. compression-fit connector 725) isadapted to provide a removably coupleable electrical connection betweenejector latch 705 and a PCB such that a further step of connecting theelectrical connection between ejector latch 1005 and the PCB is notrequired.

Referring still to FIG. 11, and now to step 1106, the present embodimentcouples a pad portion 730 with the PCB wherein pad portion 730 isadapted to provide a removably coupleable electrical connection betweenthe PCB and ejector latch 1005. Beneficially, the present embodimenteliminates the need to electrically couple each ejector latch of a PCAwith the specific PCB after the coupling of the PCB with the ejectorlatch. Instead, the present embodiment allows PCA's to be assembledwithout concern for the subsequent electrical connection of ejectorlatches to the PCB being utilized. Furthermore, the present embodimenteliminates the need to custom fit each bulkhead of a PCA with thespecific PCB and indicator light locations thereon. Instead, the presentembodiment allows PCA assemblies to be independently manufacturedwithout concern for the subsequent location of indicator lights or thebulkhead being utilized. Furthermore, with the relocation of theindicating light (e.g., LED) more room is available on the PCB and themanufacturing requirements are reduced since connectors, cables,indicators, and the like will no longer block the indicator light frombeing viewed. Thus, the present invention achieves a “Design forManufacturability” lacking in the prior art. Additionally, by reducingvisual interference and standardizing the location of the hot swapindicator, the present invention is extremely well suited to use in hotswapping environments.

Thus, present invention provides an ejector latch indicator light andconnector method and apparatus which establishes a conventional locationfor LEDs. The present invention also provides an ejector latch indicatorlight and connector method and apparatus which achieves the aboveaccomplishment and which facilitates utilization of a standard bulkheadhaving no visual port. The present invention also provides an ejectorlatch indicator light and connector method and apparatus which achievesthe above accomplishments and which can be adapted to readily interfacewith industry standard components and meet industry standardspecifications.

The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the presentinvention have been presented for purposes of illustration anddescription. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theinvention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously manymodifications and variations are possible in light of the aboveteaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to bestexplain the principles of the invention and its practical application,to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize theinvention and various embodiments with various modifications as aresuited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scopeof the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto and theirequivalents.

1. A method for reducing the interference by a bulkhead of light emittedfrom an indicator light and establishing an electrical connectionbetween an ejector latch and a printed circuit board (PCB) comprising:a) integrating an indicator light with an ejector latch, said indicatorlight adapted to emit light from said ejector latch such that a visualport is not required in said bulkhead to which said ejector latch isadapted to be coupled said indicator light comprised of: a head portion;and an electrical wire coupled to said head portion, said electricalwire adapted to electrically couple said head portion with a printedcircuit board (PCB) such that a signal from said PCB may be received bysaid head portion; and a current limiting resistor coupled to saidelectrical wire, said current limiting resistor allowing the utilizationof a plurality of voltage levels to activate said indicator light; b)integrating a compression-fit connector with an ejector latch, saidcompression-fit connector adapted to provide a removably coupleableelectrical connection between said indicator light integrated with saidejector latch and a printed circuit board (PCB) such that a further stepof connecting said electrical connection between said ejector latch andsaid PCB is not required; and c) coupling a pad portion with said PCB,said pad portion adapted to provide a removably coupleable electricalconnection between said PCB and said ejector latch.
 2. The method asrecited in claim 1 wherein said indicator light is a light-emittingdiode (LED).
 3. The method as recited in claim 1 wherein said step a)comprises coupling said indicator light with said ejector latch suchthat said indicator light is flush with said ejector latch.
 4. Themethod as recited in claim 1 wherein said step b) comprises removablycoupling said electrical connection to said PCB such that a signal fromsaid PCB may be received by said compression-fit connector.
 5. Themethod as recited in claim 4 wherein said electrical connection isfurther comprised of: an S-shaped portion for increasing connectivitywith respect to said pad portion.
 6. An ejector latch indicator lightand connector assembly comprising: an ejector latch; an indicator lightintegrated with said ejector latch, said indicator light adapted to emitlight from said ejector latch with respect to a bulkhead such that saidlight is not interfered with by a bulkhead to which said ejector latchis adapted to be coupled said indicator light comprised of: a headportion; and an electrical wire coupled to said head portion, saidelectrical wire adapted to electrically couple said head portion with aprinted circuit board (PCB) such that a signal from said PCB may bereceived by said head portion; and a compression-fit connectorintegrated with said ejector latch, said compression-fit connectoradapted to provide a removably coupleable electrical connection betweensaid ejector latch and a printed circuit board (PCB) such that saidelectrical connection between said ejector latch and said PCB isconcurrently coupled during the attachment of said ejector latch withsaid PCB, said compression-fit connector comprised of: a pad portioncoupled with said PCB; and an electrical wire integrated with saidejector latch, said electrical wire removably coupleable with said padportion, said electrical wire adapted to electrically couple said padportion on said PCB with said ejector latch such that a signal from saidPCB may be received by said ejector latch.
 7. The ejector latchindicator light and connector assembly of claim 6 wherein said ejectorlatch will couple with said bulkhead in accordance with a compactperipheral component interconnect (cPCI) standard.
 8. The ejector latchindicator light and connector assembly of claim 6 wherein said ejectorlatch will couple with said bulkhead in accordance with a VersaModularEurocard (VME) standard.
 9. The ejector latch indicator light andconnector assembly of claim 6 wherein said indicator light is alight-emitting diode (LED).
 10. The ejector latch indicator light andconnector assembly of claim 6 wherein said head portion is furthercomprised of: a light diffusing pipe integrated with said ejector latch,said light diffusing pipe for directing said light emitted from saidindicator light integrated with said ejector latch to the outside ofsaid ejector latch.
 11. The ejector latch indicator light and connectorassembly of claim 6 further comprising: a current limiting resistorcoupled to said electrical wire, said current limiting resistor allowingthe utilization of a plurality of voltage levels to activate theindicator light.
 12. The ejector latch indicator light and connectorassembly of claim 6 wherein said compression-fit connector is a surfacemount (SMT) connector.
 13. The ejector latch indicator light andconnector assembly of claim 6 wherein said electrical wire of saidcompression-fit connector is comprised of an S-shaped portion forincreasing connectivity with respect to said pad portion.